New York State Thruway Authority

GOVERNOR CUOMO ANNOUNCES ROADWAYS IN WESTERN NEW YORK IMPACTED BY EXTREME WINTER WEATHER PROJECTED TO RE-OPEN AT 6 A.M. ON WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8

Interstate 81 in Central New York to Remain Closed

Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced tonight that the New York State Thruway Authority and New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) are projecting that all roadways currently closed due to the extreme winter weather events in western New York will re-open at approximately 6 a.m. on January 8, weather and conditions permitting.

"Safety remains our top priority," Governor Cuomo said. "Temperatures will remain low overnight so I urge all New Yorkers to stay inside if possible, and use caution if they must travel."

Interstate 81 will remain closed from exit 34 to exit 48 in central New York until conditions there improve.

This potential re-opening will take place only if Thruway and DOT determine that weather and travel conditions are safe for motorists.

Thruway and NYSDOT crews will continue working through the night in preparation of this potential re-opening and a final determination will most likely be made sometime after 4 a.m. on Wednesday January 8.

It is important to note that in the event of this potential re-opening, all motorists should proceed with caution as slippery road conditions may remain in certain areas.

Motorists should also note that in the event of the re-opening of Thruway and DOT-maintained roads, travel bans may still be in place in some localities.

Motorists can also get real-time traffic information, including road closures and winter road conditions by calling 511 or visiting www.511NY.org. The phone and web services provide travelers with up-to-the-minute traffic conditions and links to information about air, rail and transit services.